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And the winner is...
Page 40
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While the result of last year's group van test was a little on the predictable side, with a running order emerging that matched our initial predictions, this time around, things were far less predetermined.
It was all up for grabs, with each van excelling in certain areas and losing ground in others.
That said, however, it came as no surprise that the Toyota Hiace was bringing up the rear in sixth place. Its main downfall is its age, being based on a van devised last century, but it has been on the receiving end of continual updates along the way.
It isn't a total failure. Its easy driving ability and strong engine stand up well, but you wouldn't want to splash the cash on a van that tacks and feels off the pace.
Next up is the Citroen Dispatch. We weren't quite sure what to expect here even though Citroen's van history is pretty solid. However, the Dispatch didn't fully engage our drivers, feeling less than the sum of its parts.
It lacked decisiveness and cohesion out on the road, while the mixed reactions from our testers to the driving position lowered its score.
So now, as we move up the ranks towards the top spot, things get a little interesting... Renault's Trafic has always been a benchmark at CMin terms of handling and ride, and despite its advancing years, it still managed to impress the group. It remains one of the easiest and most refined drives on the market, but the overall advancements made by newer vehicles are starting to show. Taking the bronze medal position we have Mercedes-Benz's Vito. This van impressed our judges with its typically German interior and car-like drive, which several found particularly pleasing.
Pipping the Merc by the slimmest of margins to second spot is the Transit. It may have been helped by the assistance of the 'Sports Van' package, and all the nice little extras it brought, but its success was more down to the way it steered, cornered and accelerated, which continually came in for praise.
It was also a quiet and polished performer, offering a relaxed drive when your foot came off the gas.
And so that leaves the Volkswagen. We knew the Transporter was a high-quality van before the test, but were uncertain if our testers would agree.
It comes as no surprise that its main strength is in the quality of its construction and design something the manufacturer is noted for and this is evident not just in the overall build, but in the way everything works together.
From the clutch to the gearshift to the steering, everything feels tight without being over-engineered.
The interior was the highest-scoring in the group and not just for its layout. Tight construction helps to keep out the exterior elements, and this shows, whether you're in traffic or on the motorway. And on fuel economy it also comes top. It's only significant negative is its engine, which can be noisy at times and isn't really in keeping with the Transporter's overall quality.
That aside, though, the Volkswagen is still a worthy winner for CM'S Group Van Test 2008. •